Mourinho open to Newcastle job as takeover talks continue

Billionaire Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan is keen to complete a £350million takeover of the Magpies this summer, but it remains to be seen what stage he is at in negotiations with owner Mike Ashley following conflicting reports. Rafa Benitez's current contract as manager at St James' Park expires at the end of June and, with the ownership in doubt, so is the Spaniard's future at the club despite being a hit with the fans. Newcastle diced with relegation after a disappointing first half of the campaign, but eight wins and three draws since the turn of the year saw Benitez steer his side to a 13th-placed finish in the Premier League, 11 points clear of the drop. Should Dubai-based Sheikh Khaled complete his purchase of the Tyneside outfit, some reports have claimed that Mourinho has 'told friends the Newcastle job is one that he would seriously consider'. The Portuguese, believed to be 'aware of the interest' from Newcastle's potential new owner and 'open to a move', has never won a league game at St James' Park as manager, having lost four and drawn three in seven attempts with Chelsea and Man United.